OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. — The Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD) has arrested two adults in connection with the death of a nine‑year‑old child who died after suffering injuries consistent with physical abuse earlier this month.
Child Hospitalized After Abuse Injuries
On April 8, 2026, a nine‑year‑old child was taken to a nearby hospital after exhibiting injuries law enforcement says were consistent with physical abuse. At the time, the child was under the care of Steven Duty and Alicia Busey, both of whom were responsible for the child’s wellbeing.
Despite medical treatment, the child succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced deceased on April 10, 2026.
Arrests and Charges
Following an investigation by the Oklahoma City Police Department, both Duty and Busey were taken into custody and formally charged with:
- Second‑degree murder
- Child neglect
Authorities have not released further details about the investigation or the specific circumstances that led to the child’s injuries.
Public Urged to Help with Tips
The OCPD says it is continuing to investigate the case and urges anyone with information to contact the Homicide Tip‑Line at (405)‑297‑1200.
Summary of Incident
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma |
| Date of Initial Hospitalization | April 8, 2026 |
| Date of Death | April 10, 2026 |
| Victim | 9‑year‑old child |
| Suspects Arrested | Steven Duty, Alicia Busey |
| Charges | Second‑degree murder, Child neglect |
| Investigating Agency | Oklahoma City Police Department |
| Tip Line | (405)‑297‑1200 |
Authorities in Oklahoma City have made arrests in the death of a nine‑year‑old child after the child was hospitalized with abuse‑related injuries and later died.
Steven Duty and Alicia Busey, the adults caring for the child at the time, now face serious charges including second‑degree murder and child neglect.
Police are continuing their investigation and are asking the public to come forward with information that may assist in the case.
